Why Crossing Parking Lots To Skip Red Lights Is Risky Business In MA

You're nearing an intersection as the light turns red. You're late for work once more because you forgot to set your alarm, and your boss wouldn't be happy if it occurs again. You see the Cumberland Farms on your right and think about taking a shortcut to save time, as the traffic lights change slowly. This brief decision saves you about three minutes in your commute. Perfect.

I've seen this happen countless times, especially at the intersection of Hodges Cross Road and Curran Highway in North Adams. The area features Pedrin's Dairy Bar, MountainOne Bank's ATM drive-thru, and parking lots on both sides of the roads. People, myself included, frequently cut through these parking lots to avoid waiting at the traffic light.

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Is it illegal to cut through a parking lot to avoid a red light?

This raises the question: Is it illegal in Massachusetts to drive through a parking lot, gas station, or any property at an intersection corner to avoid a traffic light? I researched the motor vehicle laws to clarify.

In most states, including Massachusetts, it’s illegal to cross private or business property to avoid a traffic light. Honestly, since it's private property—whether at Cumberland Farms or a Dairy Bar like Pedrin's—that’s not permitted. Plus, it can be risky, especially in busy parking lots.

Massachusetts has laws that prohibit drivers from intentionally running traffic lights. In Vermont, there is no state-wide law against Red Light violations; however, local municipalities may consider such behavior illegal.

Read More: How To Dispose Of Waste Safely In Massachusetts

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How Connecticut and Other States Manage This Law

I looked for Connecticut's laws on driving through parking lots to bypass traffic lights, but the vehicle regulations are confusing and difficult to locate online, with search results often lacking clarity. In any state, the safest approach is usually to wait for the green light.